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Crispy Ground Beef and Potato Skillet

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A quick and easy one-pan dinner featuring crispy ground beef and golden potatoes, perfect for busy weeknights and comforting family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 2 large russet potatoes (about 1 pound / 450g), peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional but recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • Black pepper to taste (freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice the russet potatoes into ½-inch cubes. Optional: soak them in cold water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until nicely browned and crispy on edges. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Remove beef from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  3. In the same skillet, add butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and cook over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add diced potatoes to the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes to get a golden crust, then stir and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check potatoes for tenderness by piercing with a fork—they should be crisp outside and tender inside.
  5. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld and everything is heated through.
  6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

Soaking potatoes in cold water before cooking helps remove excess starch for extra crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent soggy potatoes. Use medium-high heat and let ingredients brown undisturbed to develop a crispy crust. Cast iron skillet is preferred for even heat distribution. Butter is optional but adds richness. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based spread or extra olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef skillet, crispy potatoes, easy dinner, weeknight meal, one-pan recipe, comfort food, quick dinner

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